Brandi Carlile stuns CMA Awards with Patty Loveless duet, releases new album ‘Returning to Myself’

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By: Jessica Morrison

Brandi Carlile delivered a stunning performance at the 59th Annual CMA Awards on November 19. She performed “When I Call Your Name,” Vince Gill’s iconic 1989 hit alongside Patty Loveless. The duet kicked off the tribute honoring Gill’s Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Carlile’s appearance celebrated her triumphant return with “Returning to Myself,” her new album.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • CMA Awards Performance: Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless performed on November 19, 2025
  • Album Release:Returning to Myself” dropped on October 24, 2025
  • Album Details: 8th studio album, first solo project in four years
  • Collaborators: Produced by Aaron Dessner and Justin Vernon
  • Record Label: Released via Interscope and Lost Highway

CMA Awards Showcase Stuns Country Music Fans

Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless captivated the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville with their duet. The two powerhouse vocalists opened the tribute to Vince Gill at the 59th Annual CMA Awards. Their rendition of “When I Call Your Name” earned immediate praise from fans watching at home. George Strait introduced Gill afterward, who accepted his historic honor.

Carlile’s performance came at an electric moment in her career. She’s already built massive momentum following her recent album release. The singer performed on Saturday Night Live earlier this month, delivering powerful renditions of “Church & State” and “Human.” Her CMA appearance cemented her status as one of country music’s most celebrated artists.

Returning to Myself Marks Major Career Milestone

Returning to Myself” represents Carlile’s first solo album since 2021. The 10-track collection emerged after years of high-profile collaborations with music legends. She worked alongside heavyweights Aaron Dessner and Justin Vernon on production duties. The album showcases her signature blend of rock, folk, and Americana sounds.

Album Details Information
Title Returning to Myself
Release Date October 24, 2025
Album Number 8th studio album
Track Count 10 songs, approximately 43 minutes
Producers Brandi Carlile, Andrew Watt, Aaron Dessner, Justin Vernon
Record Labels Interscope and Lost Highway
Gap Since Last Album First solo project in four years

The album includes standout tracks like the title song “Returning to Myself,” “Human,” and “Church & State.” Each track displays Carlile’s emotional depth and musical range. She announced the project on September 3, releasing the title track as the lead single. The song received a music video directed by Floria Sigismondi.

What’s Next for Brandi Carlile

  • Launching a new arena tour in support of the album. Carlile promises fans intimate experiences in large venues, saying “My whole job has always been to make a big place feel small.”
  • Continued performances and tour dates announced throughout 2025 and 2026. UK and European leg planned for June 2025.
  • Possible Grammy Awards recognition. She’s an 11-time Grammy Award winner with significant critical acclaim.
  • Additional album promotion through media appearances and concert performances across multiple platforms.
  • Potential collaborations with other artists emerging from the “Returning to Myself” era music.

Who Else Performed at the 2025 CMA Awards?

The 59th Annual CMA Awards featured an impressive lineup of country music’s biggest names. Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, and Ryan Combs all took the stage. Riley Green, Kelsea Ballerini, and Little Big Town delivered memorable performances. Multiple artists collaborated for special duets and tributes.

Lainey Wilson returned as host for the second consecutive year. The ceremony aired live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on ABC. It will stream the next day on Hulu for viewers who missed the live broadcast. The show celebrated some of country music’s most iconic moments and rising stars.

Why This Performance Matters?

Cartile’s CMA Awards appearance represents more than just another performance. It signifies her place among country and Americana’s elite artists. She brought together two powerful vocalists for an unforgettable tribute moment. The duet honored music legend Vince Gill, one of country’s most respected figures.

This moment also showcases the evolution of modern country music. Artists like Carlile bridge genres, blending rock, folk, and traditional country elements. Her album “Returning to Myself” exemplifies this artistic range. Watch the full performance here:

Check out the official “Returning to Myself” music video:

YouTube video

Are you excited about Brandi Carlile’s new album and upcoming touring? Will you catch her performances?

Sources

  • American Songwriter – Coverage of Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless CMA Awards performance
  • Wikipedia – “Returning to Myself” album details and credits
  • Variety – Album announcement and artist interviews

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